The hidden stress of retirement: tips to adjust to your new ‘relaxed’ life

As retirement approaches, most of us eagerly anticipate this next chapter, but it's natural to feel apprehensive about what lies ahead. Here’s how to ease retirement stress and put your worries to rest.

‍By Carolyn Tate

Ah, retirement. The golden years you’ve been looking forward to all these years. A time for relaxation, travel, and doing all those things you've been putting off for decades. But what if it's not quite the stress-free paradise you imagined?

You might struggle with how to fill your time, feeling useful if you’re no longer working, or perhaps money worries rear their head. Namely, are you sure you’ve got enough to live on?

If this is you, take comfort in knowing you're not alone. Many retirees find themselves grappling with unexpected challenges as they adjust to their new lifestyle. Add to that the guilt or disappointment of the spare time and freedom not living up to your expectations, and it’s a perfect storm for a whole lot of unexpected stress.

Let’s take a look at how you can smooth out the transition to live the life you’ve been dreaming of.

Why retirement can be stressful

You might think that leaving behind the 9 to 5 grind would automatically lead to a carefree existence. Especially if you’ve been dreaming of it for so long! But the reality is often more complex. A study by ForbesHealth found that 32% of retirees didn't feel well prepared for the day-to-day realities of retirement.

There are a few reasons for that, such as:

1. Financial worries: According to Super Guide, 57% of pre-retirees felt stressed about running out of money in retirement, compared to 44% of those already retired. It's natural to worry in the early days about whether your nest egg will last.
   
   
2. Loss of structure: The daily routine of work provides the framework for our lives. Without it, you might feel adrift and aimless.
   
   
3. Identity crisis: For many of us, our job is a significant part of our identity. Retiring can feel like losing a part of yourself.
   
   
4. Social isolation: The workplace often provides a built-in social network - even if Jeff from accounts microwaving his fish for lunch drives you nuts. Losing those daily interactions can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
   
   
5. Too much or too little to do: Surprisingly, both extremes can lead to stress. Whether you’ve got a long list of jobs that have been waiting for you to jump into them, or you’re taking it super easy, Harvard Health Publishing notes that doing either too much or too little in retirement can lead to negative effects like anxiety, depression, and memory impairment.

Give it time – it gets easier

If you're feeling overwhelmed, take heart. Many retirees find that things improve as they adjust to their new lifestyle. Those who retire voluntarily tend to have a more enjoyable, less stressed retirement, according to the Harvard Business Review. 

This suggests that having a positive attitude and feeling in control of your decision can make a big difference. 

Remember, retirement is a significant life change, so give yourself some grace and some time. It's normal to go through a period of adjustment, even grief, as you say goodbye to your old routine.

Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to find your new rhythm.

To help you adjust and lower your stress levels, you can:

1. Maintain continuity: Try to keep some elements of your pre-retirement life stable. This could mean maintaining hobbies, relationships, or routines that bring you joy. Forbes notes that maintaining continuity in retirement can make the transition easier.
   
   
2. Keep learning: Take advantage of your newfound time by picking up a new skill or hobby. It's great for your cognitive health and can provide a sense of achievement.
   
   
3. Stay social: Make an effort to maintain and build social connections. Join clubs, volunteer, or take classes to meet like-minded people.
   
   
4. Structure your time: Create a loose schedule for your week to provide some structure. But remember to be flexible – one of the joys of retirement is the freedom to change plans!
   
   
5. Practise stress-relief techniques: the AARP recommends breathing exercises as a quick stress reliever. Other options include meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.
   
   
6. Focus on your health: Prioritise exercise, healthy eating, and regular check-ups. Good physical health can contribute significantly to your overall wellbeing.

Download our longevity guide.

7. Plan your finances: If money worries are a significant source of stress, consider consulting a financial advisor to help you feel more secure about your financial future.
   
   
8. Find purpose: Look for activities that give you a sense of meaning. This could be volunteering, mentoring, or pursuing a passion project.

Try to think of your retirement as a new chapter in your life, not the epilogue. It's an opportunity to redefine yourself and your priorities. Yes, it can be stressful at times, but with patience and the right strategies, you can create a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement lifestyle.

Here's to your next adventure!